Pastor’s conferences tell us a lot of things, sometimes good, better and sometimes counter to what God’s Word really says. As a leader, you must sort through all of it to see what God wants. Who knows better what God wants from us as leaders than Peter, the natural born leader who had to go through some refining by Jesus Christ, Himself, while on this earth. Peter’s lessons, through trial and failure, were learned well.

Jesus told Peter to go pay taxes by going fishing. In the fishes mouth was enough to pay the bill. After Peter denied he knew Christ, Jesus forgave him, put him back in leadership and told him I will build my church with you, the “rock”. Jesus asked Peter three times, “do you love Me?” With each affirmative, passionate yes!, Peter was told “feed my sheep”. Peter, destined to be the ultimate “pastor”, now passes on what he has learned with “I know what it’s like…” with compassionate encouragement for us all.

1 Peter 5, The Message
He’ll Promote You at the Right Time
5 1-3 I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it’s like to be a leader, in on Christ’s sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.

4-5 When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he’ll see that you’ve done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for—

God has had it with the proud,
But takes delight in just plain people.

6-7 So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.

What do we learn?
–God cares for you. God cares for me.

Dear Heavenly Father, You gave me comfort years ago that if I would take care of those things that are precious to You then you would take care of those things that are precious to me…my family. And you have. And I thank you and praise you for that and multiple other times you took care of us, blessed us and led us through good times and bad. I love you, Lord with all that is in me. I pray for pastors everywhere, that they would know, today that You, indeed care…and be encouraged at the thought.
In Jesus Name, Amen

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About randscallawayffm

Randy and Susan co founded Finding Focus Ministries in 2006. Their goal as former full time pastors, is to serve and provide spiritual encouragement and focus to those on the "front lines" of ministry. Extensive experience being on both sides of ministry, paid and volunteer, on the mission fields of other countries as well as the United States, helps them bring a different perspective to those who need it most. Need a lift? Call us 260 229 2276.